Clang!
Kyoji's blade clashed against PlatinumStride's sword, sending a sharp metallic ring into the air as the two matched each other's strength.
PlatinumStride swung his sword in a wide arc, aiming to overpower. But Kyoji ducked under the first strike, slid past the second, and parried the third with the flat of his blade.
His movements weren't flashy or refined—but they were efficient.
PlatinumStride gritted his teeth. Seeing Kyoji dodge every strike and now closing in on him made his frustration boil.
He slammed his sword into the ground. In response, three earth pillars shot up, aiming to trap or break Kyoji's limbs.
Sensing danger, Kyoji halted his charge. He jumped into the air, twisted midair, planted one foot on the edge of a rising pillar, and used it like a springboard—vaulting over the rest.
While airborne, both his hands snapped downward. Thin tendrils of blood shot from his fingertips like wires, whipping toward his opponent at great speed.
